Game Time: 'Darkspore' and 'Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition'

Ryan ClouseZap2It

Darkspore
PC/$49.99/March 29

When a lab experiment goes horribly wrong and unstable DNA is sent into the world, it mutates into destructive monsters known simply as Darkspore. Now it is up to you to design and group together the greatest living weapons the universe has ever seen. It is a battle of epic proportions, and victory will be determined not only by your skills but by your imagination as well.

"Darkspore" is an action/role-playing game that places you in control of dozens of heroes spanning three character classes and five genetic types. As you make your way through the game, you will find upgrades that include armor and weapon enhancements and new body parts. With thousands of these upgrades available, your heroes will quickly become unique fighting machines. If you strive for the ultimate in hero customization, Maxis has also included a detailed tool for morphing, scaling and coloring your creature.

Once you've spent hours building your perfect squad, it's time to unleash it on the battlefield. If you're looking to destroy countless computer-controlled Darkspore, then you're in luck. The game's single-player mode will have you traveling across the galaxy zapping, slicing and burning everything in your way. If you need a little help on this quest to cleanse the universe, try the campaign in co-op mode and have a friend at your side every step of the way. If you've saved the day and vanquished the Darkspore, you can also take the battle online and pit your best warriors against other players for worldwide bragging rights.

This week also marks the release of the latest "Street Fighter" port, "Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition." This Capcom title for the newly launched Nintendo 3DS offers the same button-mashing, stick-spinning brawlfests found in the original titles but brings with it a few added features exclusive to the 3DS.

Leading off the laundry list of upgrades are the all-new 3-D visuals and camera angles provided by the power of the 3DS. A complete roster of 35 characters is available, including fighting favorites Ken and Ryu. If the complex maneuvers are a bit difficult for you, "Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition" allows you to utilize the touch screen in order to perform devastating combos.

Media Link: The martial arts action continues Wednesday, March 30, with a new episode of "The Ultimate Fighter" on Spike TV.